As 2021 comes to a close, we are looking back at the many accomplishments of our credit union and community. We launched Level Up Member Benefits¹, and I am pleased to see so many of you taking advantage of not just your Everyday Member Benefits, which we’ve always offered, but new benefits including discounted rates on eligible loans and select fee waivers.
To create a more digital and remotely accessible credit union, we introduced Video Banking, expanding contactless payments with Google and Samsung Pay, added a deposit account opening option in Online Banking, and opened the Contact Center on Saturdays. We saw check deposits on mobile devices increase by nearly 20% and eStatements enrollment increased by 7%. We sincerely thank you for usage of any digital member service for the overall positive impact to sustainability. Skipping a branch visit saves on gas and also reduces your carbon footprint.
We remain committed to improving the financial health and access to education in the communities we serve. This year, we awarded nearly $18,000 in Education Grants to K-12 Central Coast schoolteachers to expand classroom resources, which was so heavily needed upon students return from distance learning. Together with YOU, our loyal members, we raised more than $62,000 during events to support the Food Banks of San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, Family Care Network, and in partnership with KSBY’s “Give a Child a Book” fundraiser. This total represents the most ever raised by SESLOC members during a calendar year! Lastly, more than 1,000 participants attended one of 15 financial education webinars in 2021, and we’re pleased to see the adoption of this digital format by our members.
As we kickoff 2022, we are excited to celebrate our 80 year anniversary with you. What started with 10 members and $500 in assets has now grown to $1.18 billion, 57,000 members and now six branches! In the fall of 2021, we returned to Cal Poly campus with a new branch to serve students, faculty and staff after a decade away. On behalf of our Board of Directors, I can share that it “feels like we’ve come home.” That’s because as we look to the future, we are fortifying and reflecting on the common values of people and place. I want to personally thank you for your steadfast support, patience and kindness to our staff— especially during tumultuous times.
Stay tuned for 80th anniversary activities and celebrations which embody the spirit and heart of SESLOC and the Central Coast. Cheers to a great new year!
